In this episode of The Circuit of Success Podcast, Brett Gilliland welcomes Byron Gettis and Austin Frazier, the coaching duo behind Althoff Catholic High School’s remarkable football state championship. Byron, a former MLB outfielder for the Kansas City Royals and now the Offensive Coordinator at Althoff, shares his journey from pro sports to high school coaching. Alongside Austin, Althoff’s head coach, they discuss the drive, mentorship, and leadership it takes to build a championship-winning program.

Byron brings a wealth of experience, from his standout days at Cahokia High School to making his MLB debut in 2004, and later, coaching at the high school and collegiate levels. Austin reflects on his own upbringing, shaped by influential mentors and family values, which now fuel his commitment to empowering student-athletes. Together, they reveal the hard work, dedication, and culture of accountability that propelled their team to state victory.

This episode delves into the parallels between sports and life, emphasizing resilience, leadership, and the importance of nurturing future generations. Byron and Austin share how their diverse paths and philosophies have come together to inspire greatness both on and off the field. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or professional, their stories will motivate you to reach new heights in your own journey to success.

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On this episode of the Circuit of Success, Brett Gilliland welcomes Lewis McKinney, a former SLU basketball legend, Boston Celtics draft pick, and now a passionate advocate for affordable housing. Lewis shares his inspiring journey, from growing up as one of 12 siblings in a family with humble beginnings to achieving athletic greatness and later pivoting into a life of purpose-driven work.

A devastating eye injury abruptly ended Lewis’s NBA dreams, but his resilience carried him through a professional basketball career overseas and into corporate leadership. With determination and grit, he turned setbacks into stepping stones, excelling as an executive at AB for nearly three decades before founding Caring Plus Incorporated. His work today focuses on addressing one of America’s most pressing needs: affordable housing.

Join Brett and Lewis as they delve into the lessons of family, the value of perseverance, and the power of giving back. This episode offers a heartfelt exploration of how challenges can lead to new opportunities, and how success is defined not just by personal achievements but by the impact we make on others.

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In this episode of The Circuit of Success Podcast, host Brett Gilliland sits down with Mark Parrish, a standout McDonald’s franchisee whose leadership has driven over $75 million in annual revenue across 18 locations. With a career spanning 25+ years, Mark is celebrated for his ability to scale operations, deliver exceptional customer experiences, and achieve consistent success in the quick-service restaurant industry.

Mark shares his journey from starting at McDonald’s as a 12-year-old under his father’s mentorship to becoming one of the top performers in the McDonald’s system. He dives into the lessons learned from working in a family business, overcoming challenges, and balancing his thriving career with his dedication to his wife and five children.

Beyond his entrepreneurial achievements, Mark is a licensed pilot who pursues his passion for aviation while continuing to inspire others with his focus on creating both personal and professional success. Tune in to hear Mark’s insights on leadership, legacy, and how to build a fulfilling life at work and at home.

For inquiries, reach out to Mark at [email protected]

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In this inspiring episode of The Circuit of Success, host Brett Gilliland sits down with two dynamic leaders in sports, Skip Birdsong and Chris Bunting. As state championship-winning coaches, they share the principles that have shaped their paths to success—on the soccer field and beyond.

From the importance of a solid foundation in family values to the discipline of preparation and fostering team trust, Skip and Chris dive deep into the culture of excellence they’ve built at Althoff Catholic High School. They discuss the impact of building meaningful relationships, creating an environment of accountability, and leading with care to transform athletes into leaders for life.

Whether you’re leading a team on the field, in the workplace, or within your community, this episode offers timeless lessons on leadership, teamwork, and resilience. Tune in to hear how these coaches prepare their players for the big game—and life—and why trust and unity are the hallmarks of every championship team.

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On this episode of The Circuit of Success Podcast, Brett Gilliland welcomes Colt Knost, a name synonymous with golf excellence and passion. From his legendary amateur career, where he claimed the U.S. Amateur and U.S. Public Links Championships, to his eight years on the PGA Tour, Colt’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

Now a fan-favorite on CBS Sports and co-host of the hit Subpar Podcast, Colt shares his inspiring story of resilience and reinvention. Learn how injuries led him to transition from competing on the course to becoming a leading voice in golf broadcasting. Colt reveals behind-the-scenes moments from walking alongside top players like Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy, the mindset required to succeed at the highest levels, and what drives his love for the game.

Since joining CBS Sports in 2022, Colt Knost has brought unmatched insight, personality, and depth to PGA Tour coverage, cementing his place as one of golf’s most beloved commentators. His story is a testament to persistence, adaptability, and the power of following your passion. Tune in for an episode filled with humor, wisdom, and practical lessons for anyone striving to succeed on the course, in business, or in life.

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In this inspiring episode of The Circuit of Success, Brett Gilliland welcomes Amber Shaw, founder of The Wellness Revolution, business mentor for divorced moms, and motivational speaker. Amber shares her journey from a difficult divorce and career burnout to building a thriving coaching business that empowers women worldwide. Her journey began at 40, during a transformative yoga retreat, where she made the decision to pursue a life of purpose and fulfillment. Six months later, Amber launched her coaching business, which quickly became a six-figure venture, enabling her to help countless women embrace change and reignite their inner spark.

Amber’s story is one of resilience, courage, and self-discovery. She emphasizes that confidence isn’t something we’re simply born with but something we build over time by showing up for ourselves in small ways every day. Amber’s transformation—rooted in self-care and self-belief—serves as a powerful example of the potential within all of us to create a life aligned with our values. As a mom of two, Amber understands the challenges of balancing personal growth with family responsibilities and is passionate about helping other women do the same.

Listeners will come away with practical tips on shifting mindsets, building confidence, and embracing the unknown to build a life they truly love. Amber’s Wellness Revolution Podcast is now in the top 2% globally, and she remains committed to inspiring women to reclaim their power. Don’t miss Amber’s insights on breaking through fear, staying motivated, and connecting with your inner resilience, and connect with her through social media to join her community of empowered women.

Connect with Amber:

TikTok: @msambershaw

Instagram: @msambershaw

The Wellness Revolution Podcast

Website: www.ambershaw.com

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In this enlightening episode of Circuit of Success, host Brett Gilliland sits down with Laura K. Sawyier, a nationally recognized wardrobe and confidence consultant, TEDx speaker, and expert in the psychology of style. As the founder and CEO of LKS Styling & Consulting, Laura has dedicated her career to using evidence-based research in fashion psychology to help individuals and organizations enhance confidence, influence, and presence. Her work, featured in outlets like Fast Company and Travel + Leisure, explores the profound impact of our clothing choices on our performance, moods, and relationships

Laura shares insights into her approach, which goes beyond closet edits and personal shopping to include comprehensive consulting for Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and various organizations. Through her seminars and workshops, she teaches the science behind our wardrobe choices and how dressing intentionally can positively impact our mindset and how we “show up” every day. For Laura, style is not just about looking good; it’s a powerful tool for self-expression and success, whether dressing for a career event, a personal milestone, or daily life.

Listeners will also gain tips from Laura on building a style that aligns with their personal and professional brands, and hear about her journey toward combining psychology with style, currently studying at Harvard University. Her TEDx talk, “The Power of Style,” and her role as President of the Friends Board at the Saint Louis Art Museum underscore her dedication to empowering people through style. Whether you’re looking to elevate your personal brand or understand how style influences behavior, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the intersection of fashion, psychology, and confidence.

Learn more about Laura K. Sawyier here

Connect: [email protected]

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In this delectable episode of Circuit of Success, host Brett Gilliland sits down with Dan Abel Jr., Chief Chocolate Officer of two iconic Saint Louis brands: Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company and Bissinger’s Handcrafted Chocolatier. Known by some as the “Willy Wonka of the Midwest,” Dan shares how he’s blending family tradition with modern business savvy to take the Abel family’s chocolate empire to new heights. As a second-generation chocolatier, Dan is passionate about honoring the legacy started by his father while innovating to meet the demands of today’s chocolate lovers.

Dan walks us through his journey from working alongside his father in the candy kitchen to leading the charge in product development, distribution, and national sales. With his two siblings by his side, Dan has guided both companies through an exciting expansion, including a new café and chocolate bar concept at their manufacturing facility. His dedication to quality, hands-on leadership, and a fearless approach to risk have helped the family business thrive while staying rooted in the values that started it all.

Outside of work, Dan is a husband and father of three who loves spending time with his family, gardening with his children, and relaxing on the golf course. This episode is packed with insights into family business dynamics, the art of leadership, and what it takes to build a brand that lasts. Join us for a conversation that’s as rich as Dan’s finest chocolate creations and perfect for anyone curious about the intersection of tradition, innovation, and sweet success.

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In this powerful episode of Circuit of Success, host Brett Gilliland welcomes Maxine Clark, the remarkable founder of Build-A-Bear Workshop and a true pioneer in the retail industry. Maxine shares her journey from a young girl inspired by her family’s resilience and her teachers’ guidance, to becoming one of the most influential leaders in retail. Since launching Build-A-Bear Workshop in 1997, Maxine transformed a simple idea into a globally loved brand, with nearly 500 stores and over 250 million customized furry friends created. As she recounts the challenges and triumphs of taking the company public on the NYSE and growing it into a household name, Maxine offers listeners rare insights into the visionary mindset that fuels her success.

Beyond her accomplishments with Build-A-Bear, Maxine reveals the next chapters of her life dedicated to giving back. From creating Blueprint4.com, a mobile app designed to help families access educational resources, to developing the Delmar DivINe™, a vibrant multi-use space revitalizing St. Louis neighborhoods, Maxine continues to drive meaningful change. As a mentor, investor, and Managing Partner at Prosper Women’s Capital, she supports women and minority entrepreneurs, embodying her belief in the transformative power of education and opportunity.

Maxine’s influence extends well beyond her career, earning her accolades like induction into the Junior Achievement National Business Hall of Fame and recognition as one of retail’s “25 Most Influential People.” Currently serving on boards such as Arch Grants, Nine PBS, and Washington University, Maxine champions initiatives that promote equity and community. In this inspiring episode, Maxine shares the lessons, values, and bold vision that have defined her path, offering a masterclass on leadership, impact, and building a legacy with heart.

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In this episode of The Circuit of Success, host Brett Gilliland sits down with Marco Buchbinder, CEO and founder of Ampliforce, a leading artificial intelligence firm that is transforming the modern workplace. Since founding Ampliforce in 2017, Marco has been pioneering AI-powered solutions to help businesses tackle complex operational challenges. He shares insights from his journey, leading startups and global ventures, and how AI is revolutionizing productivity by freeing people from tedious tasks.

With over two decades in C-suite roles, Marco brings a wealth of international experience, having worked across Milan, Rome, Vienna, Buenos Aires, and London. Fluent in four languages: Italian, English, French, and Spanish. He provides a unique perspective on leadership, adaptability, and the importance of understanding cultural differences in business. His global mindset and dedication to continuous learning have shaped his approach to building successful companies.

Marco, also the author of The AI Agent Mandate, shares his belief that artificial intelligence could be more transformative than the Internet. In this conversation, he discusses how AI can empower individuals and organizations alike by improving decision-making, automating tasks, and enhancing productivity. Tune in to discover how embracing AI is key to staying competitive in an ever-evolving world.

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